Believe it or not, the bath bomb trend isn't slowing down anytime soon. From pretty displays in stores to Instagram accounts devoted to colorful soaks — they’re everywhere. As you know, bath bombs come in many different shapes, scents, and colors; they're filled with fizzy, scented salts, and oils that dissolve in the tub for a little pampering.
However, the surge in popularity has many people wondering if they're actually safe for your plumbing. Unfortunately, when used frequently, bath bombs can definitely wreak havoc on your pipes. And while newer homes have more efficient plumbing, you'll need to be more careful about what goes into your tub's drain if you reside in an older home; here’s why:
What Do I Need to Know About Bath Bombs?
Bombs Away?
Here are some of the problems you might encounter when you habitually use bath bombs:
If the salts don't fully dissolve, they can end up clogging your drain. Undissolved pieces can get caught in your pipes, which can then trap hair and other debris, that will lead to a clog.
One of the main ingredients found in bath bombs are oils. However, this is where homeowners need to be careful: oil has the potential to harden in a drain. For example, if a bath bomb contains an oil that liquefies in warm water, but solidifies at room temperature -- you're in trouble.
Added decorative ingredients in some bath bombs, such as confetti, glitter, herbs, or flower petals, might look pretty floating on the water, but when they go down your drain, they can cause problems.
Additionally, you should never use bath bombs in a hot tub or any jetted tub. A bath bomb can completely destroy your hot tub after even one use. The small pieces can cause irreparable clogs and destroy your jets.
Use With Caution
Does that mean you can't use bath bombs at all? This is false! You don't have to worry, you can enjoy your relaxing retreat regularly by simply following these easy suggestions:
Put your bath bomb in a nylon cover to keep any decorative materials from going down the drain that can lead to a clog. You can create your own nylon bag by using an old pair of pantyhose. Just cut off a leg, insert the bath bomb, and tie it off. It might not look as pretty, but it prevents a lot of plumbing headaches later.
Another way to prevent a plumbing disaster is to use a removable drain filter inside your tub to keep any debris from going down the drain. You can even make your own creations so you know it's free of decorations.
Clean your bathtub drain regularly with vinegar. Just pour white vinegar down the drain, let it sit several minutes, and flush with hot water. This helps clear any debris or oils left inside your drain.
Clear light clogs with baking soda and vinegar. First, heat some water on the stove and pour down your drain. Add 1 half cup of baking soda, 1 half cup of white vinegar, and let sit for at least five minutes. It will fizz and help clean out the drain. When you're done, just flush with hot water from the faucet and you’ll be good to go.
Have your drain clogs cleared by a professional. If you're already experiencing clogging problems, contact a plumber. You’ll save money, in the long run, fixing clogs while they're small before they create more problems.
Now that you know how to use bath bombs without damaging your plumbing, you can relax and soak without worry.
For all of your plumbing needs, contact Milton Frank Plumbing & Cooling at (281) 645-5905.